Kiwi cager at FIBA 3x3 worlds: Where's Terrence Romeo?

MANILA, Philippines – Serbian star Dusan Bulut and Filipino-Indonesia Biboy Enguio are not the only familiar faces at the 2018 FIBA 3x3 Word Cup.

There’s New Zealand cager Everard Bartlett, who suited up for the Kiwis during the 2016 Olympic Basketball Qualifiers.

The 6-foot-4, 32-year-old guard has memories of Manila and the raucous fans that filled the Mall of Asia Arena ringing in his ears.

“Man, that crowd was awesome. We were nervous that after we beat the Philippines, the fans would boo us or do something. Instead, they applauded us and even asked us for autographs and pictures,” recalled Bartlett. “They sure know their basketball in the Philippines.”

New Zealand defeated the Philippines, 89-80, to bounce the home team from qualifying for the 2016 Rio Olympics. Bartlett scored two points in his country’s win.

“I remember the crowd going nuts every time Terrence Romeo put the moves on someone,” added Bartlett.

As for the 3x3 game, the New Zealander said that the transition is difficult, “You have got to get used to the change in the style of play. I think we get stuck in the transition from offense to defense. Once the ball goes in the hoop there is pretty much a switch in mind. That’s the adjustment. Other than that it’s also the communication and the reads.”

Clearly, Bartlett enjoys wearing the national colors, “I enjoy representing the country and the opportunities it gives you. I like the competition and going up against the best of the best. And of course, there’s travel.”

“I loved Manila the first time. You see the passion for the game. I am surprised Terrence Romeo is not on the 3x3 team.”